Pamela Slim, of Escape from Cubicle Nation, writes in her post, "When life gets you down, try a little loving kindness," of a wonderfully simple Buddhist meditation that we can use when we or those around us need some loving kindness. I really like this.
I came across the Loving Kindness Meditation which comes from the Buddhist tradition. Like so many nuggets from faiths around the world, it is not necessary to practice the religion to get a great deal of benefit from it. The meditation is simple:
Loving Kindness Meditation
May you be happy
May you be well
May you be free from suffering
May you be safe
Pamela Slim goes on to list 10 practical ways you can demonstrate loving kindness - a good read.
I've had my own practice of sending kindness and love to others, and it really makes a difference - for me, and perhaps for them. How can it not?
Some examples:
- When I see an accident, or hear an ambulance, I silently send love to those in need.
- I send love to those I care about whenever I think of them. And I tell them often.
- I always ask the cashier at the store, "How are you today?" - and then really listen to what they say.
- I smile at strangers.
- When I awaken in the morning, I think to myself: “I greet the day with love in my heart.“
And now I've added the Loving Kindness Meditation (thanks, Pamela!).
Try the meditation, or your own variations, and share (comment below) how it helps you.
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